Special Olympics

CAMP SHRIVER 

The Beginning of a Movement 

Eunice Kennedy Shriver demonstrates her soccer skills at Camp Shriver in 2006. (Source: EuniceKennedyShriver.Org) 

A Dream Coming to Life 

“The thing about Camp Shriver was that it was fun. That’s what my parents are good at it- making important things fun.”

​​​​​​​                                          ~ Timothy Shriver

Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s dream came to life in her own backyard with Camp Shriver. In 1962, Camp Shriver was organized and became the beginning of a movement. Inspired by Rosemary, Eunice experienced the struggle her own mother had while trying to find programs for Rosemary. Shriver reached out to schools specializing in disabilities and clinics in her area to recruit children who would be interested in the program. She also recruited older students to act as counselors, creating a one-on-one setting at her camp. ​​​​​​​



Athletes prepare for a day of activities at Camp Shriver.  (Source: EuniceKennedyShriver.Org) 

Camp Shriver became an instant success with the children, who flourished in the opportunity provided to them. After Camp Shriver, Eunice realized that disabled individuals had a place to continue to grow and from there the Special Olympics were created. Shriver held the last year of Camp Shriver in 2006 at her Maryland home due to the increase of camp sites around the United States. With the creation of Camp Shriver, Eunice broke barriers for individuals with disabilities around the world. Camp Shriver’s impact demonstrated the successful Special Olympics. ​​​​​​​

Eunice and Sargent Shriver attending  the last Camp Shriver in 2006.                                                                                                                    (Source: EuniceKennedyShriver.Org) 

Letter to Camp Shriver counselor Ann Hammersbacher from Eunice Shriver.                               Letter to Camp Shriver counselor Ann Hammersbacher from camper, Darleen.                          (Source: National Museum of American History)                                                                                (Source: National Museum of American History)


Camp Shriver not only broke barriers but opened opportunities.

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